Gerd Gleixner

Gerd Gleixner serves as a Research Group Leader at the Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry in Jena, Germany, and holds an Associate Professor position at Friedrich Schiller University Jena. His primary affiliation is with the Department of Biogeochemical Processes (BGP), where he leads research on molecular-scale biogeochemical cycles.

His research focuses on molecular biogeochemistry, particularly the origin, turnover, and stability of soil organic matter, carbon transport in plant metabolism, and biodiversity's role in biogeochemical cycles. Key projects include the Amazon Tall Tower Observatory (ATTO) and Aqua Diva, examining ecosystem processes across spatial and temporal scales. His work integrates isotopic techniques with molecular analyses to understand carbon cycling in terrestrial ecosystems.

Analysis of his 2021-2023 publications reveals strong emphasis on plant-soil-microbe interactions, paleoclimate reconstruction using biomarkers, and dissolved organic matter characterization. Methodologically, his work bridges field observations with advanced analytical techniques including mass spectrometry and isotope ratio measurements.

• 2022 Top Scientists (Environmental Sciences; #527 worldwide, #36 nationally)
• 2016 Thuringian Research Prize for Basic Research

Gleixner actively mentors through the International Max Planck Research School for Global Biogeochemical Cycles, which he has led as Spokesperson since 2017. His research involves significant international collaborations, particularly in Tibetan Plateau studies and Amazon basin research. Current laboratory work centers on molecular-level analyses of organic matter using state-of-the-art facilities at the Max Planck Institute.